The Thai Chamber of Commerce has urged the government to reform the country and its economy, import technology, attract foreign skilled labour, improve education and boost the birth rate.

According to a survey of nationwide members of the Thai Chamber of Commerce, which was compiled in a white paper sent to Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and Finance Minister Sanan Angubolkul on Sunday, Thailand has succeeded in its eastern seaboard development, industrial development, export and tourism promotion in the past. However, since the Covid-19 pandemic success cannot continue unless the country and its economy are reformed.

The chamber believes that Thailand must enhance its digital innovation and import technology to increase efficiency. The government should attract foreign talent to work and live in the country for the transfer of new technology and skills. Incentives could include facilitating visas and work permits while cutting taxes on residences.

In addition to this, the chamber urged the government to boost the birth rate and improve education so Thais could be “global citizens” amid universal change.

At a seminar held at Bangkok International Trade Exhibition Centre on Sunday, Mr Sanan said that business operators were experiencing a nationwide economic slowdown due to various factors such as political unrest and rising costs. He urged the government to inject money into small and medium-sized enterprises immediately to help them overcome their financial difficulties.

The chamber also proposed that the government develop Saraburi, Tak and other second-tier provinces into major tourist destinations by developing infrastructure such as airports